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Having highly negative employees in the workplace is toxic. This can slowly spread like a virus infecting everyone. If someone at work was sick with a nasty cold or flu you would most likely stay as far away from them as possible. It’s the same with toxic, negative employees and co-workers.
Some people have a way of changing the atmosphere in a room just by walking in. One minute people are happily working, being productive and comfortable. Then suddenly, like a light switch being turned off, the mood changes. The tension is so thick you can cut it with a ruler. The only thing that changed was the toxic employee entered the room and began working. What was a happy environment is no more.
Here are some characteristics of a toxic employee:
- Argues, makes demands and always criticizes.
- Quick to deny responsibility, blaming others.
- Their humor is often passive-aggressive.
- The office finger-tapper.
- Has a loud, annoying tone of voice.
- Expresses angry opinions about the company or management.
- Has a tendency to cut off or interrupt conversations.
- Often uses obscenities.
- Usually takes on a defensive posture.
- A loud cackling laugh.
- Engaged in constant conflicts with co-workers.
A Gesture of Friendship
If at all possible, advise your negative co-worker that their unhappiness is a concern and is being noticed by management, and that constructive criticism is a good thing when it is acommpanied by good, positive ideas. Offer your help about pointing out some of their disruptive tendencies in a gesture of friendship.
Is This About You?
It is possible that this description is about you. You might not even be aware of your unhealthy disturbances. Enlist the support of another co-worker you consider a friend to point out your actions before it’s too late.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.
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